Protesters Demand Gary Frago's Resignation

July 28, 2009 1:12:03 AM PDT

Atwater, CA --

An angry crowd demanded the resignation of Atwater City Council Member Gary Frago. Frago is in trouble because he forwarded a series of racist jokes on e-mail to several prominent community members. | Watch Videos Above for More Information on this Story |

The controversy has rocked Atwater, and prompted a special council meeting, where dozens of residents spoke out. The anger over the racist joke e-mails forwarded by Council Member Frago went from the streets, to the city council meeting, which was held in the community center because of the size of the crowd. Most who spoke out asked Frago to resign.

David Futrell said, "You should do the right thing and resign."

"I ask you to please resign, you have hurt this community enough," said Alvin Mayfield.

"For all of you supporters of Gary Frago, try telling those black jokes to a black person ... I dare you to," said Alan Brookes.

But Frago had few supporters, even after apologizing. He said, "I am sorry ... I am sorry I have hurt people."

All of the other council members criticized Frago's behavior and unanimously approved writing a letter of disapproval. Most of the citizens seemed to feel it wasn't enough, but some saw it as a hopeful step.

Laverne Brown said, "I think we will see change. Sometimes it takes things like this to bring about change."